About the program
Our intensive course, organized by SWPS University in collaboration with the European Reform University Alliance (ERUA), explores the concept of mental health literacy, equipping students with the knowledge and skills to recognize, understand, and respond to mental health issues across diverse cultural settings. The goal of the course is to develop a clear understanding of mental health, mental disorders, and the myths and stigma surrounding these issues.
Dates and locations
The course participants are expected to attend the following classes:
- August 31, 2026: an introductory online lecture
- September 7-12, 2026: onsite participation in the course in Warsaw, Poland
What will you learn
During the program, you will learn how to:
- Promote mental well-being
- Provide initial support to individuals in psychological distress
- Navigate help-seeking behaviors.
A special emphasis will be placed on the role of cultural values, traditions, and systemic factors in shaping perceptions of mental health and access to care.
Through lectures, discussions, and practical exercises, students will critically examine the intersections of culture, language, gender, and race in mental health contexts, which will prepare them for approaching mental health issues with cultural sensitivity and practical knowledge.
Application Process
Before you start your application process, please prepare the following documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (max. 1 page)
- Cover letter describing why you would like to participate in the course (max. 1 page)
- Grade Point Average (GPA) transcript or a written confirmation of the GPA for the last semester signed by your home university authorities
- CEFR B1 English proficiency certificate, for example, we accept TOEFL, CAE, IELTS, or FCE (B2). Alternatively, a letter confirming your English skills, printed on your home university’s letterhead, signed by one of your university lecturers.
Application deadline: July 12, 2026, by midnight (CEST).
To apply, please send your application documents to erua@swps.edu.pl
Funding
Students from ERUA partner universities, other than SWPS University, who are accepted to the program by SWPS University, can apply for travel and accommodation funding at their home university’s ERUA Office.
More information: https://english.swps.pl/we-the-university/our-news-and-events/conferences-and-seminars/35313-mental-health-literacy-in-a-cross-cultural-perspective-edition-2026
